Geranium phaeum var. lividum 'Joan Baker'
ABOUT
'Joan Baker' is a cultivar of dusky cranesbill, characterized by its unique and subtle beauty. The plant produces delicate foliage, which is a deep green color, often with a silvery sheen or marbling. The leaves are deeply lobed, creating an intricate and textured appearance that adds interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The most notable features of 'Joan Baker' are its flowers. These blooms are small but numerous, and they exhibit a refined elegance that makes them stand out in a shady garden nook. Each flower is a rich, dark purple hue, almost appearing to be black in certain lights, with contrasting lighter centers that often display veining or small speckles. The petals are not overly showy; they're somewhat cupped and create a subtle nodding effect that adds to the overall delicate appearance of the plant. The flowering stems rise elegantly above the foliage, with loose clusters of blossoms that can provide a delightful display in the spring and early summer months. The overall impression of 'Joan Baker' is one of sophisticated charm, with its moody floral tones and graceful foliage, making it a treasured addition to any space that can support its growth preferences.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Geraniaceae
Synonyms
Dusky Cranesbill, Mourning Widow, Pale Wood Geranium
Common names
Geranium phaeum 'Joan Baker'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Dusky Cranesbill (Geranium phaeum) is generally considered non-toxic to humans. If ingested in large quantities, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, but it is not known to have serious toxic effects.
To pets
Dusky Cranesbill is also generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While it is unlikely to cause serious harm if consumed, it's always possible for individual animals to have an adverse reaction or experience gastrointestinal discomfort from eating plant material that is not part of their usual diet. If a pet ingests this plant and exhibits signs of illness, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Dark purple
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Adds visual interest to gardens with its delicate dark maroon flowers and attractive foliage.
- Low Maintenance - Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry conditions, making it useful in water-conservation landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance - Thrives in shady areas where other plants might struggle, helping to cover ground under trees or in darker garden spots.
- Wildlife Attraction - Attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Seasonal Interest - Provides early spring blooms and can continue to flower into the summer, offering a prolonged period of interest.
- Versatility - Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including cottage gardens, woodland plantings, and border fronts.
- Cold Hardy - Resistant to cold temperatures and can survive in many climates without needing extra protection.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The dark hues of Geranium phaeum can be utilized in natural dye processes, imparting rich colors to fabrics or textiles.
- Educational Tool: Because of its distinct features, it can serve as an excellent plant to study pollination and plant biology in schools and educational programs.
- Garden Contrast: Its dark flowers offer striking contrast when planted among light-colored blooms, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a garden.
- Craft Projects: The dried flowers can be used in craft projects, such as making bookmarks or pressed flower art.
- Photography Subject: With its unique beauty, photographers can use G. phaeum 'Joan Baker' as a subject for botanical photography.
- Flower Arrangements: Fresh or dried, its blooms can be included in flower arrangements to add a dark, dramatic touch.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible flowers can be used to garnish desserts or salads, although they are not as commonly eaten as other geraniums.
- Tattoo Inspiration: The striking appearance of the flower can serve as an inspiration for floral tattoo designs.
- Boundary Marker: Due to its sturdy nature, it can be used as a natural marker to outline the boundaries of garden beds or property lines.
- Companion Planting: It can be planted alongside vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects that may aid in pollination.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dusky Cranesbill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dusky Cranesbill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unexpected Meeting - 'Joan Baker' is a variety of Geranium phaeum, also known as dusky cranesbill, which might evoke feelings of surprise through its subtle but noteworthy appearance.
- True Friendship - With its enduring and hardy nature, dusky cranesbill could symbolize the lasting and resilient bond of true friendship.
- Melancholy - Dusky cranesbill, especially given its shaded and darker tonal varieties, might represent a sense of melancholy or contained sadness.
- Comfort - As a garden plant that reliably returns each year, it may offer a symbol of comfort and reassurance through its dependable presence.
WaterFor the Dusky Cranesbill, ensure the soil is kept evenly moist, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which might be approximately every week depending on the climate and indoor conditions. Apply water directly to the soil to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can promote disease. In terms of the amount, give the plant about 16-24 ounces of water each time you water, adjusting as necessary for your plant's size and environmental conditions.
LightThe Dusky Cranesbill thrives in partial shade to full sun. The ideal spot would be one that receives morning sunlight and is shaded from the intense afternoon rays, or a location with dappled sunlight throughout the day. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little will reduce blooming.
TemperatureDusky Cranesbill does well in a wide range of temperatures but prefers to be kept in conditions between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30°F but should be protected from frost. To encourage healthy growth, avoid placing it in areas with drastic temperature swings.
PruningPrune the Dusky Cranesbill to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom, as well as to maintain its shape and size. Pruning is advisable immediately after the first flush of flowers has finished, typically in late spring or early summer. Cut back the flower stems to the base of the plant, and lightly shape the foliage if required.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Dusky Cranesbill requires a soil mix that is well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline. A mixture of loam, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite would provide the ideal growing conditions. This plant thrives in soil with a pH of about 6.5 to 7.5.
RepottingDusky Cranesbill doesn't typically need frequent repotting. It can be repotted once every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in the spring when the plant begins actively growing.
Humidity & MistingDusky Cranesbill prefers average to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable and tolerant of various humidity conditions. It tends to thrive in the moisture levels found in most homes, without the need for additional humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; protect from intense afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleGeranium phaeum var. lividum 'Joan Baker', commonly referred to as dusky cranesbill 'Joan Baker', begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring. The plant then grows into a rosette of leaves, from which stems eventually rise and bear distinctive deep purple, almost black flowers with light centers, typically from late spring to early summer. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which are distributed by gravity and animals. Throughout the summer, the plant continues to produce lush foliage and may rebloom if conditions are favorable. In autumn, the plant begins to die back as temperatures decrease and light levels reduce, entering a period of dormancy over the winter. With the return of warmer temperatures in spring, the plant emerges from dormancy, ready to begin the cycle anew with fresh growth and another season of flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Geranium phaeum var. lividum 'Joan Baker', commonly known as dusky cranesbill, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this particular plant. The best time to divide is in the early spring or autumn when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a large amount of soil around the roots. Gently tease apart the root ball into smaller sections, each with a good amount of roots and several shoots. These divisions can then be planted directly into the garden at the same depth they were originally growing. Ensure that the new plants are well-watered until they are established, which may require consistent moisture for several weeks. This method allows the gardener to create new plants that are true to the parent plant and will typically bloom within the same year.
